Undermount Sinks are subtle and stylish, it’s fixed to the underside of the benchtop, allowing your beautiful bench to shine. It maximises bench space, is easiest to clean with no rim to contend with, and creates a seamless look. Its cons are reduced storage since the sink intrudes into the vanity below, and isn’t suitable with laminate tops as it can’t be sealed as well against moisture.
As the name suggests, Above Counter sinks are perched completely above the benchtop; providing more storage space within the vanity below.
It’s a popular style that demands attention and is great for creating a focal point.
Its disadvantage is that the seal around the base can collect dirt and grime, and visible watermarks can be seen on the sides of the sink if not cleaned regularly. Additionally, if the vanity height is not properly considered, the sink can sit high and in turn be uncomfortable to use.
Wall Hung sinks are fixed directly to the wall without needing to sit on or in a benchtop. It’s perfect for small bathrooms as it saves on space and leaves more visible floor area, making the room feel bigger.
The downside is it doesn’t provide any storage due to the absence of a vanity, although a mirrored cabinet can be easily be installed above.
You can make this sink a feature by matching your bottle trap to your tapware.
Inset/Drop In Sinks rest on top of the vanity where part of the sink is exposed above and the other part below; making it easiest to install.
These too, are great for small bathrooms or those looking for a minimalist look.
The only downfall is that you can’t wipe water or spills straight from the benchtop into the sink.
Semi- Recessed Sinks sit out from the front of the vanity and overhangs the unit; a great choice for kids and people with limited mobility as the taps are easier to reach. It’s designed for a slimmer style vanity when bathroom space is tight and don’t want to compromise on the size of the sink.
Its drawback is limited storage space underneath, and due to no benchtop around the front of the sink to catch water, splashes onto the floor are more common.
Its name is self-explanatory. Freestanding sinks are beautifully designed and know how to make a statement. It stands on the floor, concealing any pipework in between.
The downside is it leaves no room for storage, and cleaning the gap between the wall and sink can be a bit tricky.
You may be wondering, do bathroom sinks come in a standard size? Truth is, no, there are no rules. For instance, some sinks are so petite that your hands just fit while others are large enough for a quick wash of the hair. Based on common Australian bathroom sink dimensions, round sinks are 300mm - 400mm in diameter, while rectangular sinks are 400mm - 550mm in length and 300mm – 400mm wide.
The typical internal depth is 100mm - 150mm, and the overall bathroom sink height (from the floor to the rim of the sink) ranges between 750mm – 900mm, depending on your vanity and height needs.
When searching for a new sink, the last thing you want to do is measure it incorrectly – and then order the wrong one! That’s why it’s imperative to know the correct measurements. For square or rectangle sinks, measure the outer length, width and depth. For round or oval sinks, measure the length across the widest point of the sink. If installing an undermount or inset/drop-in sink, ensure there is clearance within your vanity for the sink height.
Also, it’s important to consider any available wall and/or benchtop space and note where the plumbing is. Keep in mind that if the existing vanity remains, then the new sink must match those specifications. Otherwise, the cut-out opening will need to be resized (resulting in more labour and costs). If the old vanity is being replaced, then choosing the right size sink comes down to personal preference, space and practical usage.
Depending on the budget and the vision you wish to achieve, materials differ in price and can change the overall look and feel of your bathroom. Traditional ceramics such as porcelain and vitreous china are cheaper, classic choices and provide a surface that’s smooth, glossy and stain-resistant thanks to its enamel coating.
Natural stone and concrete sinks offer a luxurious look but come with a bigger price tag and are vulnerable to scratches and stains.
Solid surface is a composite material that has a silky finish and a natural stone-like feel. It’s impact, stain and bacteria-resistant, easy to clean and long-lasting.
If you thought black tapware was trending, then just wait until you see coloured sinks! They can easily transform your space and become the star of the room, especially if you’re seeking to add character and vibrancy. They’re also an excellent design element if you wish to create a dramatic contrast between monochromatic themes or plain tiles - anything more than this may become too visually chaotic.
Aside from the classic white finish, bathroom sinks are available in an assortment of playful colours and varying hues including pink, blue, green, black, grey, and brown. They also come in metallic finishes such as gunmetal, brushed bronze, brushed copper and brushed brass.
Price becomes a part of the equation when deciding on the right bathroom sink, so it’s best to narrow down the ones to suit your budget. They’re all made differently depending on the type, style, size and material – that’s why they range anywhere between $200 to $5,000.
Keep in mind that these prices don’t include the cost of installation or tapware, so you’ll need to factor in these additional expenses.
